Holiday Ham Pot Pies

Holidays bring people together. Whether it’s a grand Thanksgiving feast or a cozy Christmas dinner, food lies at the heart of these celebrations. Holiday meals are more than just sustenance; they’re moments of shared tradition, warmth, and memories. Each dish holds special meaning, passed down through generations or crafted with love.

Comfort food plays a starring role on the holiday table. These familiar, satisfying dishes evoke nostalgia and a sense of belonging. The aroma of a roasting turkey, the sweetness of a pumpkin pie, or the savory goodness of a casserole – these flavors and textures offer solace and joy. Holiday comfort foods connect us to our past, to loved ones, and to the simple pleasures that make the season so special. They are irreplaceable ingredients in the recipe of a joyous holiday celebration.

The Appeal of Pot Pies

Pot pies have a long and delicious history as comfort food. Their origins date back centuries, with early versions appearing in ancient Egypt and medieval Europe. These simple pies consisted of savory fillings baked in a sturdy crust, offering a hearty and portable meal. Over time, pot pies evolved, but their core appeal remained the same – a satisfying mix of tender fillings, rich gravy, and a comforting crust.

Pot pies are particularly well-suited for holidays. Their self-contained nature makes them easy to serve at gatherings, large or small. The fillings offer endless possibilities, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences. Classic pot pies with chicken or beef provide traditional warmth, while variations using seasonal vegetables or festive ingredients like cranberries add unique holiday flair.

Beyond their deliciousness, pot pies are often associated with feelings of home and family. Sharing a pot pie evokes a sense of coziness and shared tradition. They are versatile dishes that can be elegant enough for a special dinner or a casual and comforting choice for post-holiday leftovers. Whether store-bought or lovingly homemade, the warm embrace of a pot pie offers a taste of the holidays that’s both nostalgic and undeniably delightful.

The Recipe

Equipment:

• Large skillet or pot
• Medium saucepan
• Baking dish (individual ramekins or a large pie dish)
• Rolling pin (if using store-bought crust)
• Pastry brush (optional)

Ingredients: The Filling

• Leftover holiday ham, diced (about 2 cups)
• Frozen peas and carrots (1 cup total)
• Butter (¼ cup)
• Yellow onion, chopped (½ cup)
• Celery, chopped (½ cup)
• All-purpose flour (⅓ cup)
• Chicken broth (2 cups)
• Heavy cream (½ cup)
• Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary (1 teaspoon)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients: The Crust

• Store-bought pie crust (2 sheets) OR ingredients for your favorite homemade recipe
• Egg (1, lightly beaten)

Notes:

• Leftover mashed potatoes can be added for extra richness.
• Don’t have leftover ham? Substitute with rotisserie chicken or cooked turkey.
• Feel free to adjust vegetables to your liking – try adding mushrooms or diced potatoes.
• To make this gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and a gluten-free pie crust.
• If you don’t have heavy cream, whole milk or half-and-half can be used.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prep the Filling

1. Melt butter in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and celery, cooking until softened and slightly translucent (around 5 minutes).
3. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it starts to turn golden.
4. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring often, until thickened.
5. Stir in heavy cream, diced ham, frozen peas and carrots, and herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Assemble the Pies

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
2. Lightly grease your baking dish of choice (individual ramekins or a large pie dish).
3. If using store-bought crust, roll it out slightly on a lightly floured surface. For homemade crust, follow your recipe instructions for rolling and preparation.
4. Gently place a bottom crust into your baking dish. If using ramekins, cut the dough to fit.
5. Fill the pie crust(s) with the warm ham filling.

Step 3: Seal and Bake

1. Position a top crust over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Cut slits in the top crust to vent steam.
2. Lightly brush the top crust with beaten egg (this helps achieve a golden-brown finish).
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If using ramekins, the baking time might be slightly shorter.

Tips:

• For a thicker filling, stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a bit of broth before adding the ham and veggies.
• If the crust browns too quickly, loosely tent with aluminum foil during the last part of baking.
• Let the pot pies cool slightly before serving for the perfect bite.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with your crust! Try puff pastry or even crumbled biscuits for a unique topping.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes:

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pot pies. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes complement the savory flavors. For a classic touch, a side of creamy mashed potatoes adds extra coziness.

Garnishes:

A dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt adds a tangy brightness. A sprinkle of fresh herbs brings a touch of freshness.

Presentation:

Present individual pot pies in ramekins for a charming, rustic feel. To make it extra festive, tie a bit of colorful ribbon or twine around each ramekin. For larger pies, slice and serve on plates adorned with a sprig of rosemary or a few cranberries for a pop of holiday color.

Beverages:

Pair your pot pies with a sparkling cider or cranberry juice for a festive non-alcoholic option. A light-bodied red wine like a Pinot Noir also complements the flavors well.

Variations of the Recipe

Dietary Adjustments:

• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free pie crust (store-bought or homemade). Substitute all-purpose flour in the filling with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free.
• Vegetarian: Replace the ham with roasted vegetables like butternut squash, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, or cauliflower. For extra richness, add cooked lentils or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Dairy-free: Substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Replace heavy cream with unsweetened plant-based milk (oat or almond milk work well).

Flavor Variations:

• Southwest Spice: Replace the fresh herbs with cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Add a can of diced tomatoes (drained) and some corn for a southwestern-inspired filling.
• Creamy Mushroom: Substitute the ham and veggies with a mix of sautéed mushrooms. Add additional herbs like thyme and a splash of white wine to the filling for a richer depth of flavor.
• Holiday Twist: Stir in leftover cooked turkey or chicken along with the ham. Add a handful of dried cranberries and chopped pecans to the filling for a festive touch.

Crust Alternatives

• Puff Pastry: Use pre-made puff pastry sheets for a light and flaky top crust.
• Biscuit Topping: Drop spoonfuls of your favorite biscuit dough for a warm and comforting topping.
• Phyllo Dough: Layer sheets of phyllo dough for a delicate and crispy crust.

Tips:

• Adjust the seasoning of your filling to highlight your chosen variations.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to find combinations you love.
• Don’t be afraid to mix and match ingredients for your own unique pot pie creations!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers:

• Refrigerator: Properly cooled pot pies can be stored in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual pot pies or the entire pie (once fully cooled). Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Frozen pot pies will keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips:

• Oven: This is the best method for reviving that crispy crust and ensuring the filling is heated through.
  • For refrigerated pot pies: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Cover the pies loosely with foil and bake for 20-30 minutes (longer for frozen pot pies) until heated through.
  • For frozen pot pies: Bake covered for about an hour, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
• Microwave: While convenient, microwaves risk a soggy crust. Heat individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking and rotating halfway.
• Air Fryer: Air fryers can crisp up pot pies nicely. Reheat for 5-10 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).

Important Notes:

• Always reheat pot pies until they are piping hot throughout to ensure food safety.
• If the crust starts to brown too quickly while reheating, cover it loosely with foil.
• For frozen pies, it’s sometimes best to defrost them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for more even cooking.

FAQs

How can I make the crust of my pot pie flakier?

• Use cold ingredients (butter, water) for your pie crust.
• Handle the dough minimally to avoid overworking the gluten.
• Consider using a mix of butter and shortening for extra flakiness.
• Blind bake the bottom crust before adding the filling to prevent a soggy crust.

Can I prepare the pot pies in advance and freeze them?

• Yes! Assemble the pot pies (unbaked) and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, increasing baking time as needed.

What are some vegetarian alternatives for the ham in this recipe?

• Roasted vegetables: Butternut squash, mushrooms, cauliflower, and sweet potatoes.
• Lentils or chickpeas: Add cooked lentils or chickpeas for protein and heartiness.
• Tofu: Crumbled and seasoned tofu can be a good meat substitute.
• Tempeh: Marinated and crumbled tempeh adds texture and a slightly nutty flavor.

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